Administrative Procedures for Moving to the Seychelles

Published on October 5, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

The Seychelles, a paradise archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is attracting an increasing number of expatriates drawn by its white sand beaches and exceptional living environment. However, settling in this small island nation requires a good understanding of the administrative procedures in place. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare for your move to the Seychelles with peace of mind.

Obtaining the Golden Ticket: Seychelles Visas

To stay in the Seychelles beyond the standard tourist period, it’s essential to obtain a visa suited to your situation. The Seychellois government has established several types of visas for foreign residents:

• Work Permit (GOP – Gainful Occupation Permit)
• Retirement Permit
• Investor Permit
• Student Permit

The Work Permit is the most common for expatriates. To obtain it, you must have a job offer from a Seychellois employer. It is the employer who will handle the application process with the Department of Immigration and Civil Status. The GOP is typically granted for an initial period of one year and is renewable.

The Retirement Permit is for individuals over 55 years old with sufficient resources. You must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $2,500 to be eligible. This visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

For investors, a specific permit exists if you wish to start a business in the Seychelles. You must present an investment project of at least $150,000 and obtain approval from the Seychelles Investment Board.

Students can obtain a Student Permit, provided they are enrolled in a recognized educational institution in the Seychelles.

In all cases, it is recommended to initiate the process at least 2 months before your planned arrival date in the Seychelles. Applications are made online through the official Seychelles government website. You will need to provide numerous supporting documents, including a medical certificate, a police clearance certificate, and proof of sufficient financial resources.

Finding Your Cozy Nest: Housing Search in the Seychelles

Once you have your visa, the next step is to find housing. The real estate market in the Seychelles is quite tight, especially on the main island of Mahé. Prices are high, particularly in popular tourist areas.

For long-term rentals, it is advisable to go through a local real estate agency. They know the market well and can help you find a property that matches your criteria. Expect to pay an average of between €800 and €1,500 per month for a 2-room apartment in Victoria, the capital.

Purchasing property by a foreigner is subject to restrictions in the Seychelles. You must obtain government authorization through the Seychelles Investment Board. This process can take several months. Furthermore, non-residents can only purchase in certain designated areas, primarily luxury residential complexes.

An interesting alternative for expatriates is shared housing. Increasingly popular, it helps reduce costs and facilitates integration. Dedicated Facebook groups for shared housing in the Seychelles exist and can assist in your search.

Whatever your choice, be prepared to pay a significant security deposit, often equivalent to 3 months’ rent. Lease agreements are typically for a minimum of one year.

Renewing Your Right to Stay: Procedures Not to Forget

Renewing your residence permit or visa is a crucial step to maintain your legal status in the Seychelles. The procedures vary depending on the type of visa you hold.

For Work Permit (GOP) holders, it is your employer who must initiate the renewal application with the Department of Immigration. This process must be completed at least 2 months before your current visa expires. You will need to provide a new medical certificate and a statement from your employer confirming the continuation of your contract.

Retirees must renew their permit every 5 years. The procedure is similar to the initial application, including the need to prove you still have sufficient financial resources.

For investors, the visa renewal is conditional on the health of your business. You will need to present financial statements and prove that you have met your commitments regarding investment and job creation.

In all cases, it is strongly recommended to anticipate these procedures. Processing times can be lengthy, and any delay could jeopardize your right to stay in the Seychelles.

Be mindful of changes in circumstances: If you change employers or if your family situation changes (marriage, birth of a child), you must promptly inform the immigration authorities. These changes may require a modification of your status.

Integrating into Seychellois Society: Essential Administrative Procedures

To live peacefully in the Seychelles, several administrative procedures are essential. They will allow you to access public services and fully integrate into Seychellois society.

Opening a local bank account is a priority. The main banks in the Seychelles are Seychelles Commercial Bank, Barclays Bank, and Mauritius Commercial Bank. To open an account, you will need your passport, your residence permit, and proof of address. Some banks may also request a recommendation letter from your bank in your home country.

Registration with the healthcare system is also important. The Seychelles has a public healthcare system that is free for residents. To benefit from it, you must register with the Ministry of Health by presenting your residence permit. However, many expatriates opt for supplementary private health insurance, offering faster access to care and better coverage.

If you drive, you will need to obtain a Seychellois driver’s license. Holders of an international driver’s license can drive for 3 months. Beyond that, you must pass a theoretical and practical test with the Seychelles Licensing Authority. The process is simplified if you already have a license from your home country.

For parents, enrolling children in school is mandatory. Education is free and compulsory until age 16 in the Seychelles. There are public and private schools. Registration is done with the Ministry of Education, upon presentation of the family record book and the child’s health record.

Finally, don’t forget to register with your embassy or consulate. This step, although not mandatory, is highly recommended. It will allow you to receive important information and benefit from assistance if needed.

Navigating the Legal Framework: Laws and Regulations for Foreigners in the Seychelles

Living in the Seychelles as a foreigner involves adhering to a specific legal framework. Here are the main regulations to know:

Employment restrictions: The Seychellois government seeks to protect local employment. Thus, certain sectors are reserved for Seychellois citizens. Expatriates can only work in fields where there is a shortage of local skills. Furthermore, employers must prove they have attempted to recruit locally before hiring a foreigner.

Property ownership limitations: As mentioned earlier, the purchase of real estate by foreigners is strictly regulated. You can only purchase in designated areas and with government authorization.

Taxation: The Seychelles has an advantageous tax system for residents. Income tax is set at a flat rate of 15% for income above 8,555.50 Seychellois rupees per month (approximately €550). Below this threshold, no tax is due. However, expatriates must be vigilant about their tax status in their home country.

Duration of stay: Even with a residence permit, you cannot stay indefinitely outside the Seychelles. An absence of more than 3 consecutive months may lead to the revocation of your permit, unless special authorization is granted.

Family reunification: If you have a work permit, you can bring your spouse and minor children. However, your spouse will not automatically have the right to work. A separate application will need to be made.

Participation in political life: Foreign residents do not have the right to vote in the Seychelles, except in local elections in some cases. Naturalization is possible after 15 years of continuous residence but generally involves renouncing your original nationality.

Environmental protection: The Seychelles has strict environmental protection laws. As a resident, you must scrupulously respect them, particularly regarding waste management and the protection of wildlife and flora.

Conclusion: Prepare Your Move to the Seychelles Carefully

Moving to the Seychelles is an exciting adventure, but one that requires meticulous preparation. The administrative procedures may seem complex, but they are essential to ensure your integration and peace of mind in this tropical paradise.

Do not hesitate to seek assistance from professionals to navigate these procedures. Many law firms and consultants specializing in expatriation to the Seychelles can guide you through each step.

Finally, keep in mind that patience is key. Administrative processes can sometimes be lengthy in the Seychelles, but the exceptional quality of life awaiting you is well worth these initial hassles.